You can be referred for a cochlear implant at any age.

 

We accept referrals from audiologists, ENTs, AoDC, SLTs and GPs. If you are over 19 years of age and have your audiological information, it is possible to self refer.  

 

You can be referred for a public assessment or a private assessment. It is possible to meet the criteria for a cochlear implant to be beneficial, but not meet the criteria for funding. Please note that private assessments will also require a referral for surgical services, and that there may also be a cost involved with this if funding criteria is not met.  

  

To be eligible for a cochlear implant, you must live permanently in New Zealand.

 

Evidence of citizenship or a resident class visa is required. Public referrals at The Hearing House are accepted for anyone living in the Northern Cochlear Implant Trust region. See map below.  

 

Prior to referral, all clients must be fitted with appropriate hearing aids and receive little or no significant benefit from them.